Mindy McCready

Some of these songs bring the artist's career full-circle, while others tell a haunting story of a life cut short.

Country music and drinking have always had an uncomfortably close relationship.

You know "Carlene" and "Just Another Day in Paradise," but did you know Phil Vassar also wrote these country hits for other artists?

Rest in peace.

The country talent would have turned 47 today.

Women have ruled the country charts for decades by singing about far more than just love and heartache.

The best country songs about being a strong woman all have a certain independent spirit in common.

May they rest in peace ...

Mindy McCready's career was as promising as anyone could dream when she released "Ten Thousand Angels" to country radio in 1996.

Tragedy can strike anyone, from a neighbor next door to family members to some of the biggest superstars in the world.